Substance Abuse in the Military

Life in the military can be very stressful and those who join the army, air force or navy tend to be quite young. To cope with the stresses of military life, it is not uncommon for personnel to turn to substances such as alcohol or prescription medication. There is a strong culture of drinking within the armed forces, and loneliness and boredom can sometimes play a role in contributing to excessive alcohol consumption.

Active duty can also be a cause of substance abuse among military personnel. Witnessing the devastation of combat can have a profound effect on certain individuals, and many will suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. These conditions are often treated with prescription medication, which can end up being addictive if misused. Military personnel may also suffer physical and psychological problems during service, which again could be treated with prescription medication.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD is common among veterans and, unfortunately, often goes undiagnosed. This can lead to many veterans turning to drugs and alcohol upon leaving the military. Many suffer from stress and anxiety and substance abuse is the only way they know how to cope. Sadly, this frequently leads to addiction issues that require professional treatment.

PTSD sufferers might experience flashbacks of traumatic events they experienced. This causes the sufferer to feel distress and fear, and many experience panic attacks and terrifying nightmares. PTSD coupled with addiction can have devastating consequences for veterans and their families. As well as the mental and physical health problems associated with these conditions, there is a risk of marital breakdown and financial hardship. It is, therefore, crucial that treatment is provided as soon as possible.

Treating Addiction

At UKAT, we have experience in treating a variety of addictions and mental health disorders. We offer a broad spectrum of treatments for many conditions and we have specialists who are fully trained in treating dual diagnosis patients.

We understand the difficulties facing those with addiction problems and know how hard it is for one to admit to having a problem. However, we believe that our programme offers the best chance for successful recovery, and we know that we can provide a high level of care to veterans struggling to cope with addiction or mental health issues.

UKAT facilities are staffed by fully qualified professionals in conjunction with support staff who will provide constant care and support to all patients throughout their stay. We offer a range of treatments that includes one-to-one counselling, group therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioural therapy, and 12-step work.

If you have been dealing with alcohol or drug addiction and have done so for some time, it may be necessary for you to complete a medical detox before you can begin a programme of rehabilitation. It is essential that the patient is free from the effects of drugs and alcohol before they can learn how to change their addictive behaviour.

Detoxing with UKAT

UKAT centres provide medically supervised detox programmes where patients can eliminate alcohol and drugs from their body in a comfortable and safe environment, with access to medical care and support if necessary.

It is important to realise that as the body begins the process of eliminating toxins, certain withdrawal symptoms are likely. These can range from mild to severe and can include shaking, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and hallucinations. The good news is that in a supervised facility, the most severe symptoms can usually be prevented.

We believe that detoxing does not have to be a painful experience and our fully trained staff are on hand to provide medication to ease any symptoms if necessary and appropriate. All medications are dispensed by medically trained staff only.

Upon completion a programme of detoxification, you will be ready to begin a rehabilitation programme designed with your individual needs and circumstances in mind.

The Goal of Rehabilitation

UKAT understands that there is usually a deep rooted cause for PTSD, depression and substance abuse among veterans. It is our goal to help you identify the cause of your illness so that you can learn how to spot certain cues and triggers that lead to addictive and compulsive behaviour. As part of the rehabilitation programme at UKAT clinics, we teach relapse prevention skills as well as life skills designed to help veterans cope with the pressures of life outside the military.

We want to make sure that all patients learn the skills necessary for independent sober living. We would also encourage regular attendance at fellowship support groups as this will help you to maintain your sobriety going forward.

Admissions

UKAT welcomes veterans who want to overcome their addictions and mental health issues. We have a number of professional staff who have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you conquer your illness. We have a reputation for success when it comes to treating issues such as depression, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, PTSD, and dual diagnosis.

If you are an affected veteran and would like more information on how UKAT can help you, contact us today for details.

Life Changing

March 28, 2016

I booked my treatment through UKAT not knowing if I could change my life or how it would turn out, but 5 months later, my life has done a total 180 degree turn, thanks UKAT.

Recovery Lighthouse

December 16, 2015

After spending 3 months in Recovery Lighthouse I had to leave a review, the staff there are so caring and really help me make sense of my addiction and find a new way to live

Sober life ahead

September 28, 2015

Sanctuary Lodge saved my life, after an eternity of drinking I just couldn’t stop, now life is looking up, and I have a new vision of a sober life ahead.

Cope with feelings

September 28, 2015

I initially booked for 10 day detox but I quickly realised I needed longer in treatment and to learn the root causes of addiction. The staff at BlueSkies really helped me find out what was wrong and how to cope with my feelings

New lease of life

September 28, 2015

After years of trying AA meetings and other fellowships, I found recovery in Sanctuary Lodge, now 6 months on I have a new lease of life and feeling positive about the future

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